HOTCHKISS FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Jet into the Gunnison Gorge, Float the Gold‑Medal Waters: A Full‑Day Dory Fishing Primer
A full‑day experience that starts with a morning jet‑boat run into Gunnison Gorge and proceeds to guided dory fishing in renowned Gold Medal waters—this guide explains what to expect and how to book.
Jet into the Gunnison Gorge, Float the Gold‑Medal Waters: A Full‑Day Dory Fishing Primer.
Float into the Gunnison Gorge by jet boat, then fish Gold Medal waters from a comfortable dory under the canyon’s famous rock cliffs—an eight‑hour, expertly guided day that suits all skill levels and requires advance reservation.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Fish Gold‑Medal Water with Local Guides
The trip places anglers on recognized Gold Medal water where professional guides run the dory segment and provide expert instruction suitable for all skill levels.
Canyon Walls and Remote Scenery
The float takes you into Gunnison Gorge where the route reveals the area’s spectacular rock cliff walls and a canyon environment distinct from lower elevation fisheries.
Jet‑Boat to a Comfortable Dory
A morning jet‑boat run puts the group upstream before anglers transfer into a dory—comfortable craft that make fishing easier for people who prefer minimal hiking and reduced mobility demands.
What the day feels like
How the Day Unfolds
You board a jet boat with your fishing gear for a morning run, are taken upstream to a drop‑off, and then continue by dory under the watch of a professional fly‑fishing guide for an immersive day in the Gunnison Gorge.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The jet‑boat portion operates as a morning service (roughly 6:00–8:00 a.m., varying with season and daylight). The overall outing is offered typically from March through November, weather permitting.
Bring all your fishing gear for the day; be prepared to sign a liability waiver as part of participation requirements.
Anglers must have a reservation; the trip has limited availability and Pleasure Park is the only permit holder—reserve early.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The full experience is an eight‑hour outing.
When does the jet‑boat portion run?
The jet‑boat service runs as a morning service, approximately 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., with exact timing that fluctuates by season.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes—anglers must have a reservation; the trip has limited availability and Pleasure Park is the only permit holder.
What ages can participate?
The outing accepts participants age 5 and older.
Is the trip suitable for less mobile anglers?
Yes—the dory provides a comfortable fishing platform and the trip is well suited for people who are less mobile and cannot do a lot of hiking.
Will I need to sign any waivers?
All anglers must sign a liability waiver due to the inherent risks of outdoor activities.